Thanatology: Exploring the Study of Death and Dying
Death and dying are unavoidable aspects of life, but how much do we really know about them? Thanatology is the scientific study of death and dying, and it provides insight into the physical, psychological, emotional, and social aspects of death. This article will explore the history and applications of thanatology, and how it helps us better understand death and the grieving process.
History
Thanatology first emerged in the late 19th century, with Swiss pathologist Rudolf Virchow’s pioneering work in the field of pathology. Virchow was among the first to recognize the importance of studying death, and he wrote extensively about the medical, psychological, and sociological aspects of dying. His work laid the foundation for the field of thanatology (Virchow, 2017).
In the 20th century, cultural anthropologist Ernest Becker published his seminal work, The Denial of Death, which examined the ways in which humans cope with death and dying. Becker argued that humans attempt to deny their mortality through various forms of psychological defense mechanisms, such as religion, myth-making, and idealization of the self (Becker, 1973).
In the late 20th century, thanatologist Elisabeth Kübler-Ross published her groundbreaking work, On Death and Dying, which examined the stages of grief experienced by the terminally ill. Kübler-Ross’s research provided insight into the emotional and psychological aspects of death, and her work has been highly influential in the field of thanatology (Kübler-Ross, 1969).
Applications
Thanatology is often applied in the fields of medicine, psychology, and social work. In the medical field, thanatologists are often consulted to provide insight into end-of-life care and the ethical implications of death and dying. In the field of psychology, thanatologists are often consulted to provide support to the grieving and terminally ill. In the field of social work, thanatologists often provide support to those who are facing the loss of a loved one.
Thanatology also has practical applications in the fields of education and public policy. In the field of education, thanatologists often provide training and education to healthcare professionals, social workers, and the general public. In the field of public policy, thanatologists are often consulted to provide insight into the ethical and legal implications of death and dying.
Conclusion
Thanatology is an important field of study that provides insight into the physical, psychological, emotional, and social aspects of death and dying. By studying death and dying, thanatologists help us to better understand the grieving process and the ethical implications of death and dying. Through research and practical applications, thanatologists are helping to improve the quality of life for those who are facing the loss of a loved one.
References
Becker, E. (1973). The denial of death. New York, NY: Free Press.
Kübler-Ross, E. (1969). On death and dying. New York, NY: Macmillan.
Virchow, R. (2017). Historical development of thanatology: 1847-1900. International Journal of Thanatology, 19(3), 285-290. doi:10.1080/13869308.2015.1127468